The Mark Of The Beast

As colonizers, the English characters in “The Mark of the Beast” hold themselves above the colonized Indians. The English culture is viewed as superior on all fronts: morally, intellectually, and in terms of advancements that mark civilization. Although the narrator expresses criticism of the imperialist perspective, he clings to his “Englishness” when confronted with ideas and situations that fly in the face of his cultural and religious philosophies.

The narrator declares that Strickland “knows as much of the natives as is good for any man” (241), dryly offering the stereotypical colonial perspective: if one fraternizes too much with the members of the local culture, one risks losing his Englishness. The narrator undercuts these comments by showing that he shares Strickland’s thoughtful approach toward native culture. The narrator believes Hanuman is “worthy of respect” (242) and he treats the deity’s people respectfully. In this way, both the narrator and Strickland differ from Fleete, the quintessential Englishman: an ignorant and arrogant occupier who shows no appreciation for the native language and customs.

As Englishmen, the narrator, Strickland, and Fleete share a sense of solidarity. They have a common interest—the Empire—and they share a cultural heritage.